Our 5 Favorite Experiences in Rio de Janeiro
A perfect balance between extensive metropolis and natural wonders, Rio is a geographical maze that offers a city experience unlike any other in the world. From its world-famous beaches that disappear into the horizon, its incessant parties in the clubs or in the streets and its dramatic mountains covered in lush green jungle towering over the city, it’s hard not to fall in love with Rio. Rio de Janeiro is an old-time favorite destination – and for good reason! Everyone recognizes photos of the impressive statue of Christ the Redeemer, everyone longs to party at the Rio de Janeiro Carnival and “The Girl From Ipanema” has been heard and covered countless times. As well as its stunning sights, Rio is rife with culture. A mixture of black, indigenous and Portuguese culture, the Brazilians are a fascinating hybrid that have succeeded in incorporating this unique character into their daily lives as can be seen in the variety that offers Samba, the most popular dance in Brazil. Rio de Janeiro provides endless excitement and unforgettable moments, to ensure a memorable trip here are the top 5 experiences and must-see sights in Rio.
Rio de Janeiro offers a city experience unlike any other in the world!
#1 Take the Cable Car up Sugarloaf Mountain
Seen from the 1300 foot tall (396m) peak of the Sugarloaf Mountain, that rises where Guanabara Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, Rio is indeed a Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City). The view is sensational at any time of day but if you can stick around until sunset or have the courage to reach the summit for sunrise, you will witness a breathtaking sight you will never forget. Read more about Sugarloaf Mountain…
Admire the view of Rio from above at Sugarloaf Mountain
#2 Hit the beaches of Rio de Janeiro
Ipanema and Copacabana are the two largest and most famous beaches in Rio that have long lured tourists into their soft white sand. Numbered posts run up and down both beaches and display a division between the wealthier beachgoers that tan their perfect bodies and Favela kids showing off their football skills. Read more about Copacabana and Ipanema beaches…
Enjoy a long stroll along Copacabana Beach / Source
#3 Explore Rio’s Botanical Gardens
Idyllic and serene among the commotion of Rio de Janeiro, the tranquil botanical gardens – or Jardim Botanico – is an ideal place to gaze at tropical flora. The extensive UNESCO biosphere reserve is home to over 6,000 species of plants, including 900 species of palm trees and 2,000 species of orchids. Read more about the Botanical Gardens…
Explore the 350 acre Botanical Gardens in Rio
#4 Visit the World Famous Christ the Redeemer Statue
Perched on top of the Corcovado Mountain, the 131 foot tall (40m) statue of Christ the Redeemer gazes out at the Rio de Janeiro skyline. The 635 ton statue depicts Christ with his arms outstretched in an almost welcoming embrace and is not only a powerful symbol for Christianity across the world but has also become a cultural icon for Rio de Janeiro and Brazil. Read more about the Christ the Redeemer Statue…
See the New World Wonder of Rio’s Christ the Redeemer Statue / Source
#5 Immerse Yourself in Rio’s Samba Beat
As the largest Carnival celebration in the world, the Rio Carnival is indeed an exhilarating party. In the former Portuguese colony, Carnival started on Saturday and ended on Fat Tuesday. Nowadays the anticipation and preparation for Carnival installs itself months before the celebration. A marvelous display of bronzed bodies, spectacular indigenous costumes and pulsating African beats, the Rio Carnival represents the pinnacle of Brazilian culture and their indigenous identity. Read more about the Rio de Janeiro Carnival…
Samba Dancer at the Rio Carnival / Source
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